PORT ST. LUCIE, FL—The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Turnkey Construction Planners Inc.—a roofing contractor based in Melbourne, FL—for exposing employees to fall hazards. The company faces $199,184 in penalties.
OSHA initiated an inspection as part of its Regional Emphasis Program on Falls in Construction. Inspectors observed employees working without the use of conventional fall protection at two separate worksites in Port St. Lucie, Florida. OSHA has cited the company four times in the past five years for similar violations.
"Repeatedly exposing employees to fall hazards that can lead to serious injuries or fatalities is inexcusable," said OSHA Fort Lauderdale Office Director Condell Eastmond. "Employers have an obligation to identify and eliminate known hazards that place their employees in harm's way."
Turnkey Construction has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to help ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education, and assistance.